New York City's Best 2023 Fall Experiences

Autumn is always prime time in NYC. Get a leg up with these expert picks in Gotham.

By Jack Rico

What’s lovelier than Manhattan in the fall: I mean… The city transforms into a cultural mecca, hosting a seemingly endless series of events and parties from the Met Gala to Fashion Week. But amidst all the glitz and glamour, the city casts an intoxicating romantic spell, inviting you to explore its dimly lit cafes, coziest of bars and riverside sunset views. It’s as if the world’s most important city’s has come alive just for you.

Art Stop by The Brooklyn Public Library for one of the season’s hottest art shows. “The Book of HOV,” a 40,000 sq. ft. exhibit celebrating the musical legacy of Brooklyn’s own Jay-Z, feels as if you’re stepping into a living album. Grab a limited-edition library card and leave feeling like a legit VIP.

Restaurant For the gastro-curious, make a reservation at Baar Baar, the perfect mix of exotic cuisine and sleek décor. Chef Sujan Sarkar treats each dish as a celebration of Indian heritage, reimagined for the Manhattan palate. From the sinfully delicious dahi puri to the savory beetroot murabba, this chic eatery will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into an episode of And Just Like That…

Bar Time stands still at Jac’s on Bond, your new favorite downtown bar. Nestled in NoHo’s historic Bond Street, this restored 19th century townhouse invites you to relax with cocktails and conversation in an old-world ambiance. Sip on a caprese martini in this snug subterranean lounge and unwind in true Gotham style.

Destination Escape the hustle and bustle of the city crowds at Roosevelt Island’s Four Freedoms Park, a hidden oasis along the underrated East River. Walk this two-mile promenade surrounded by towering skyscrapers, unobstructed views of the water and leaf-filled lawns perfect for picnics. Even though you’re in the heart of the city, it’ll feel like a world away. And do take the tram—hovering high above the East River invokes an indescribable feeling.